AIP in a blood test typically refers to testing for Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP), a genetic disorder that affects the production of heme, a component of hemoglobin.
Here's a breakdown:
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Acute Intermittent Porphyria (AIP): This is the most common and severe form of acute porphyria. AIP is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme hydroxymethylbilane synthase (also known as porphobilinogen deaminase or PBGD). This deficiency leads to a buildup of specific porphyrin precursors, namely porphobilinogen (PBG) and delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA), in the body.
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Blood Tests for AIP: Blood tests for AIP typically look for elevated levels of these porphyrin precursors, particularly PBG and ALA, especially during an acute attack.
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Why Test Blood for AIP?: Doctors order these tests when a patient exhibits symptoms suggestive of an acute porphyria attack. These symptoms can include:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures
- Mental status changes (confusion, hallucinations)
- Red or brown urine
- Rapid heartbeat
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Other Tests for AIP: In addition to blood tests, urine tests are also commonly used to detect elevated levels of PBG and ALA. Genetic testing can also confirm an AIP diagnosis by identifying mutations in the HMBS gene, which encodes the PBGD enzyme.
In summary, when you see "AIP" related to a blood test, it almost always refers to testing for Acute Intermittent Porphyria by measuring porphyrin precursors such as PBG and ALA. This helps diagnose or rule out the condition, especially during symptomatic episodes.
